Health promotion

The MSAH has a general responsibility for guiding and overseeing health promotion in Finland.

Health promotion is based on the Health Care Act and is part of public health activity. Health promotion is also regulated by legislation concerning infectious diseases, tobacco control and alcohol.

• Health Care Act 1326/2010 (Finlex)

Lifestyles and the living environment have an impact on welfare. The activities of the MSAH further health promoting lifestyles and clean, safe and accessible living environments. Accident injury prevention is a central concern of public health work.

Finland has achieved good results in tackling infectious diseases. The national vaccination programme and high standards of hygiene have succeeded in averting many infectious diseases and epidemics, particularly among children.

Reducing health inequalities

Reducing health inequalities is a prime objective of the MSAH, which aims to make good health undifferentiated among different sections of the population in different parts of the country. By promoting changes in lifestyle it has been possible, for example, to reduce cardiovascular diseases, though inequalities in health and mortality remain substantial.

The government supports health promotion by budgetary allocations, the use of which is determined by the MSAH.

Health promotion at municipal level

Municipalities are responsible for taking health into account in all their activities and decision-making. 

The Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities has published a guide in well-being through nutrition for municipal decision-makers, together with the National Nutrition Council.

• Well-being through nutrition. A guide for municipal decision-makers (pdf, 3 mB)